Wellness Tonics

What Are Wellness Tonics, Anyway?

Wellness tonics (sometimes also called health tonics, herbal tonics or immunity tonics) do more than quench thirst — they’re the latest way to tune up your body’s internal systems. The hydrating drinks typically contain vitamins and minerals thought to protect cells and kick up the immune system. They’re also sometimes made with adaptogenic herbs — ingredients that can help optimize the body’s energy production and help the body adapt to stress.

Where’d They Come From?

Before big pharma, there was big forest. Rather than writing a prescription, ancient healers and shamans foraged for ingredients — leaves, herbs, berries, mushrooms, spices — to customize elixirs for their patients. Herbalists in China, Egypt, Greece and India built their botanical knowledge over centuries, developing TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) and the Ayurvedic principles still used today.

So, Should You Start Sipping?

Totally — but keep your expectations in check. Tonics aren’t supposed to be a quick fix; instead they’re typically meant to be sipped over time. And, while ancient cultures have relied on herbs, spices and fungi for benefits for centuries, modern scientific study of many of these supplements is still in the works. (Always make sure your doctor is aware of any complementary or integrative approaches you’re taking, including tonics — some herbal ingredients can interact with medications.)

Look for some of these buzzy ingredients on the label of a pre-packaged wellness tonic, or pick one up in the supplement aisle to add to your own DIY brew:

Fresh or dried turmeric. Historically used in Ayurvedic medicine for a variety of conditions. Western studies show turmeric may help support heart, joint and skin health.

Probiotics. Studies show this “friendly” or “good” bacteria may support the immune system and digestive system.

Apple cider vinegar. May support digestive health.

Fresh or dried ginger. Historically used in Asian medicine to settle the stomach. Western studies agree that ginger can help support digestive health.

Reishi mushrooms. Known as the “mushroom of immortality” in Chinese medicine, the fungus may help support aging cells.

Baobab. A fruit native to Africa, the dried powder is often added to drinks and is packed with vitamin C.

Elderberry. Researchers funded by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health are currently studying Elderberry’s antioxidant effects.

Adaptogenic herbs like tulsi and ashwagandha. May help the body bounce back from stress.